Chapter 1868

The memory of the nurse drawing his blood sent an involuntary shiver down his spine.
Desperate to escape another round of tests, Melon plastered on his brightest smile, showering Holden with exaggerated compliments and even composing a playful tune about what an amazing father Holden was to avoid getting a check-up.
While Holden chuckled at the boys antics, his resolve remained unshaken, The examination would proceed as planned.
Realizing he couldnt charm his way out of this, Melon slumped in his seat, his Lips curling into a pout.
Adele, noticing her brother sulking, rummaged through her pocket and pulled out some candy, Extending the candy toward him, she said, Dont be sad, Melon.
Here, have some candy.
Thanks, Adele.
Melon unwrapped a piece and popped it into his mouth.
The fruity sweetness coated his tongue, but it did little to lift his spirits.
Holden, steering the car with one hand, caught Melons gloomy reflection in the rearview mirror. His heart softened.
After the check-up, Ill take you to the amusement park, he said.
Really? Melons face lit up like a spark in the dark, his voice filled with excitement.
Ill be good during the check-up! Adele, hearing this, turned her hopeful eyes toward Ariana, who responded with a tender smile.
But as Ariana looked at Adele, a wave of guilt washed over her.
Memories of the years Adele had endured Sadies abuse came flooding back.
If only she had recognized her daughter sooner, Adele wouldnt have suffered so much at such a young age.
Holden, noticing the shadow of guilt in Arianas eyes, stopped the car at a red light.
He reached out to gently stroke Arianas hair and said in a soothing tone, Dont blame yourself.
Sadie will never have the chance to hurt us again.
Ariana nodded at Holdens comforting words, yet deep down, her resentment toward Sadie burned fiercely.
If not for the law, she would have wanted to make Sadie pay tenfold for Adeles pain.
Now that Sadie was confined to a rehabilitation center, living a pitiful and restricted life, Ariana believed that justice had been served.
In no time, the family of four reached the hospital.
Both Ariana and Melon went through their follow-up examinations without issue.
After roughly thirty minutes, the results came back.
Holden was relieved that both Ariana and Melon were fine.
Daddy, you promised to take me to the amusement park! Melon said, his voice bubbling with excitement as he clung tightly to Holdens hand.
Noticing that one of Melons collar buttons was undone, Holden knelt to button it.
Dont worry. I always keep my promises, he said with a reassuring smile.
We will head there right now.
At those words, Melon threw his arms around him, his joy evident.
Daddy, youre the best! Nearby, Ariana cradled Adele in her arms, her expression softening as she watched the touching scene between father and son.
As they prepared to leave for the amusement park, Arianas eyes darted across the hallway.
Her attention caught on Maxwell, who was strolling with a woman that rumors had pegged as his potential crush.
The pair emerged from another consultation room, their conversation punctuated by laughter.
Ariana frowned slightly.
When Maxwells gaze locked onto Arianas, he halted mid-step.
After he exchanged a few words with the woman at his side, they began walking toward Ariana.